§ Mr. Whiteheadasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what would be the cost per mile of modernising major British waterways and locks to take the standard continental barge up to 1,350 tons, compared to the cost per mile of construction of dual-carriage highway.
§ Mr. CarmichaelWaterway construction costs vary widely, but I am informed that, depending on topography and the number of crossings—roads, railways, streams, etc.—involved, the cost per mile is likely to be in the range of £1.45 million to £3.3 million. So far as haghway construction costs are concerned, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Harlow (Mr. Newens) on 28th January.—[Vol. 885, c.154–5.]